The 2000 VW Passat has a low-slung power-steering pump with a power-steering reservoir attached to the radiator coolant tank. It has the word "hydraulic" embossed on the cap. The owner’s manual does not give a good description of its location. One way to identify the reservoir is to follow the hose from the power-steering pump up to the reservoir. Only mineral spirit VW power-steering fluid can be used without destroying the seals. It is only available at the dealership.
Park the car on a level area.
Pull the power-steering dipstick from the reservoir and wipe it off with a rag. Reinsert it into the reservoir. Pull it back out and look at the two lines on the very bottom of the dipstick. If the engine is hot, the fluid should be at the top mark on the stick. If it is cold, the fluid should be at the lower mark. There is about a 10-ounce spread between the upper and lower marks.
Fill the reservoir only as needed--a few ounces at a time. Recheck until fluid shows on the dipstick. Keeping in mind the 10-ounce rule, add only a few ounces at a time until full. Only use the special VW fluid because it is the only compatible fluid.
